Jets releasing Thomas Jones; Lito, too?

The New York Jets will release running back Thomas Jones this week, allowing the leader of the NFL's top-ranked rushing offense to become a free agent.

General manager Mike Tannenbaum said yesterday that the team told Jones it will cut ties with him when the league's free- agency period begins Friday.

The Jets also will release cornerback Lito Sheppard, acquired last year in a trade with the Eagles, according to Newsday. Were he to remain, the Jets would owe Sheppard, 28, a $10 million roster bonus that would have triggered another 4-year contract.

Jones was due a $3 million roster bonus on top of a $2.8 million base salary this season. He and the Jets failed to reach a compromise on restructuring his contract; the team wanted him to take a pay cut.

Drew Rosenhaus, Jones' agent, didn't immediately respond to e-mails seeking comment.

Jones, who turns 32 in August, is coming off a season in which he set career highs by rushing for 1,402 yards and 14 touchdowns while helping the Jets reach the AFC Championship Game. He was a popular presence in the locker room, twice being voted the team's most inspirational player by his teammates.

Jones had a career-high 331 carries in the regular season and appeared to wear down a bit down the stretch as rookie Shonn Greene got the majority of carries.

Jones' departure leaves Greene, the team's third-round pick last year, as the likely starter in the backfield. The Jets also anticipate having a healthy Leon Washington, who is recovering from a broken right leg that sidelined him for the last nine games of the regular season and the playoffs.

* Chicago waived tackle Orlando Pace after one season in which the 34-year-old played little like the All-Pro he once was with St. Louis. The Bears signed Pace last season as a free agent. He started 11 games, missed time because of a groin injury and finished his 13th NFL season as a reserve. Pace was a seven-time Pro Bowl selection with the Rams. Chicago also waived tight end Fontel Mines and guard Tyler Reed.

* A judge dismissed charges of simple assault and resisting arrest against Steelers kicker Jeff Reed, who was accused of raising his fists at a Pittsburgh police officer when ordered back in his vehicle as police dealt with backup tight end Matt Spaeth for allegedly urinating in a parking lot Oct. 18.

The two misdemeanor charges dismissed by state District Judge Richard King at Reed's preliminary hearing were the most serious he faced. King postponed for 6 weeks a decision on whether to hold Reed for trial on charges of disorderly conduct and public drunkenness. King directed Reed to perform 40 hours of community service and said he would consider dropping the two summary charges if Reed complies.

* San Francisco tendered contract offers to linebacker Ahmad Brooks and offensive lineman David Baas.